Firesweep: defence testing

:: Report begins ::

Extensive defensive perimeter trials have been undergoing over the last weeks. As a result, Tech-Priest Engineer Morania has recommended further levelling certain terrain features to minimise cover available to any attacking force. Although this was carried out when we first came to this listening station four years ago, certain rock outcrop formations were left in strategic positions to enable automated turrets to be affixed to them. However although these turrets have proven very effective against ground-based attacks, if a force was attacking in drop pods or by deep strike, they could be bypassed altogether so their firepower wasted. These turrets have all now been relocated well within the perimeter defence line.

As was mentioned in a previous Bulletin [17: Indomitable Dark Fortress], targeting arrays needed the libations of the Techmarines to ensure rapid friend-recognition. The limited mono-programmed auto sensii are now slightly more reliable, but not to be entirely trusted. Scout squads [xxxx] and [xxxx] performed three mock assaults, two being at night. In both night trial instances they potentially suffered 40% casualties, the daylight trial 55%-65% from the automated turrets. This is very encouraging.

Good use is also being made of Mortis Dreadnought Brother [xxxxx] — it has been found that by using neural slave cogitators it is possible to remotely control the quad-mounted autocannons atop tower B. At this stage work is experimental — but if successful could prove very beneficial to Astartes in similar situations.

:: Report ends ::

Further observations on the effectiveness of these new defensive facilities will follow.